Chivu confirms Dumfries departure to Real Madrid, outlines Inter’s strategic response
Cristian Chivu says club had no choice but to allow Denzel Dumfries’ exit, while insisting ‘plans A and B’ are in place for every squad role.
Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu has confirmed that defender Denzel Dumfries will leave the club for Real Madrid in July, following the activation of the player’s €20 million release clause. Speaking in a detailed interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Chivu stated that the club was unable to prevent the departure due to the contractual terms, noting that Dumfries had already completed medical tests with the Spanish side while on international duty with the Netherlands.
“We must be ready with the right solution and the right alternative, and understand what would help us take the next step forward,” Chivu said regarding the exit. He emphasised that while the club could not block the move, the focus now shifts to maintaining squad depth and competitiveness across all levels.
Media reports have identified Atalanta’s Marco Palestra, who spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Cagliari, as the primary replacement target for Dumfries. However, Chivu declined to confirm Palestra as a direct signing, stating, “Marco Palestra is a nice profile, but he is not one of my players today, so I can’t really talk about him.”
The coach outlined that Inter has prepared ‘plans A and B’ for each squad role to ensure the team remains competitive. Chivu highlighted the club’s preference for utilising young Italian players who identify with the club’s values, while acknowledging the necessity of additional signings to improve the squad. He noted that while directors manage the market, the coaching staff requires players to send positive signals to the group and environment.
Chivu also addressed speculation linking centre-back Alessandro Bastoni to Barcelona, expressing confidence that the Italian defender will remain at San Siro. Describing Bastoni as “one of our champions” and one of the best centre-backs in the world, Chivu dismissed the transfer stories and affirmed his belief in the player’s future at the club.
Looking ahead to the summer window, Chivu acknowledged the unpredictability introduced by the World Cup, warning that negotiations can become “agony” due to unforeseen situations. Despite these challenges, he maintained that the club’s strategic planning is already in place to navigate the market effectively.
